WARRIORS coach Michael Nees has challenged France-based striker Tino Kadewere to work hard and get back to his best after a lengthy injury saw him miss out on a national team call-up for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
The Nantes forward failed to turn up for national team call-ups late last year due to injuries as the Zimbabwe national football team pushed for a place at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) finals in Morocco.
He is not part of the squad that has been assembled for the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers against Benin and Nigeria next week.
Zimbabwe play Benin next Thursday before they travel to Nigeria for a clash with the Super Eagles on March 25.
Nees announced a 23-member squad on Wednesday and questions arose over whether there is a way back for Kadewere.
Kadewere (29) has not made a single appearance for Nantes so far this year, having played just eight matches this season, which all came last year.
“I have constant conversations with Tino. He was unfortunately made a scapegoat last time (after being) accused of faking an injury,” Nees said.
“But he was out for five months. So, I think everybody who publicly criticised him . . . should apologise. He has been out of action since November.”
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The German coach explained that Kadewere is still in his plans, but he has to prove himself so that he can reclaim his place.
“Tino is, of course, in our list. He plays on a very high level,” he said.
“He must just get the confidence back into his body, the fitness, the self-belief that his body can cope with everything.
“And then we will invite him and assess him. And if he’s performing good, he will be invited.”
Nees said for a player that was out that long, he needed more games under his belt before he can be considered.
“Even if he returns to the squad, at his club, maybe over the weekend, it would be too early,” the Warriors gaffer said.
“He was out of action for five months. It’s too early. Same with Bill Antonio. He was out of action for over a year with ACL [anterior cruciate ligament] injury.
“But with Tino, we have very good conversations and very respectful. And there’s no problem from my side with him.”
